Description

If you love rustic, comforting meals with simple ingredients and bold flavor, this Greek Rice with Cabbage (Lahanorizo) is the perfect dish to try. A traditional Greek village recipe, Lahanorizo combines tender cabbage, fluffy rice, rich olive oil, and fresh herbs in a tomato-infused base. It’s budget-friendly, hearty, and naturally vegan—great as a main dish or a flavorful side.

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Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or 2 large fresh tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp fresh dill or parsley (plus more for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Add-ins:

1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
½ cup green peas
Pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Cabbage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the sliced cabbage (and carrot if using) and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and reduces in volume.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Rinse the rice under cold water, then add it to the pot.
Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes.
Stir occasionally and check for doneness—rice should be tender and liquid mostly absorbed.

Step 4: Finish with Herbs and Lemon

Once rice is cooked, stir in fresh dill or parsley.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Let sit covered for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs for added richness.

Notes

Use Fresh Cabbage – Thin slices cook down beautifully into the rice.
Don’t Skip the Lemon – Brightens up the dish and balances the richness.
Keep It Moist – Add a splash more broth if it’s drying out before rice is done.
Let It Rest – Resting after cooking improves texture and flavor.
Double the Batch – It stores and reheats wonderfully for lunch or dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean